Home Sales Fell Sharply This Past December—But Why?

Brainerd Lakes Real Estate Podcast with Chad Schwendeman

Home sales have dropped significantly of late.
Here’s what I think is behind the trend.

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This past December, home sales plunged across the country. In fact, they are down a staggering 6.4%. However, it's not clear why.

The economy is doing well. During that same December, 312,000 jobs were created across the country and age gains are accelerating while labor-force participation is increasing. Mortgage rates, while higher than a few years ago, are still at historic lows.

When looking at the economy and mortgage rates together, the current housing market is more favorable than it was back in the year 2000—yet sales are lower than they were back then.

It's unlikely that one-off news events are to blame. For example, recent stock market volatility and the government shutdown both occurred after the drop in home sales was already underway. So what could possibly be going on?

My suspicion is that it's a reflection of declining consumer confidence. In some areas of the country, home prices, which have increased for years, are finally falling. Naturally, this affects potential buyers negatively. Nobody wants to buy a home and have it decrease in value immediately.

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My suspicion is that it’s a reflection of declining consumer confidence.

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These nationwide trends have yet to hit the Baxter market. Home prices are still trending upward and demand remains high.

If you were to list your home now, it’s likely you'd be able to sell quickly and for top dollar. In fact, now might be a particularly favorable moment, considering the significant drop in mortgage rates in the past two months.

The thing is, this situation won't last forever. Eventually, the same kinds of trends we are seeing across the country will catch up with us around Baxter as well.

That's why it makes sense to act now.

If you have any questions for me, whether you are looking to buy or sell, give me a call or send me an email today. I'm here to help!